Alabama A&M University’s 11th Annual Forestry Fair drew more than 300 students from local summer camps last week, turning The Quad into an outdoor classroom where young people explored forests, wildlife and the careers built around protecting both.
The free event featured forestry professionals, wildlife biologists, researchers and Alabama A&M faculty leading students through hands-on exhibits and demonstrations. Topics ranged from wildfire prevention and prescribed burns to hydrology, wildlife ecology and forest management.
The fair is hosted through a partnership among Alabama A&M University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service and the Society of American Foresters. This year’s event is also recognized as part of Forests250, a nationwide initiative tied to the America250 commemoration that promotes forest stewardship and conservation education.
Among the highlights was a wildland fire demonstration showing students how prescribed fire is used to maintain healthy forests and reduce wildfire risk. The demonstration was led by Jeremy Whigham, Alabama A&M fire chief and Forestry, Ecology and Wildlife Program instructor, alongside Alabama Forestry Commission Fire Operations Chief Balsie Butler.
Dr. William Stone, professor in Alabama A&M’s Forestry, Ecology and Wildlife Program, led an exhibit on the connections between water resources, wildlife habitats and forest ecosystems. Wildlife biologist Allison Cochran of the USDA Forest Service engaged students with animal specimens and displays highlighting biodiversity and wildlife management.
Stone said the event is as much about career awareness as it is about conservation.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this event is helping young people see that forests are more than places to visit — they are places where they can build careers, conduct research and make a difference,” Stone said. “We want them to know they can enjoy forests, work in them and help protect them. For me, it’s a chance to influence the next generation of forestry professionals.”
Students also heard a living history presentation from Trooper Derrick Davis of the Buffalo Soldiers Greater Atlanta Chapter, 10th Cavalry, highlighting the soldiers’ legacy as some of the nation’s first park rangers, wildland firefighters and stewards of public lands.
Alabama A&M students supported the event throughout the day, with USDA 1890 National Scholars, Thurgood Marshall College Fund interns and summer forestry research apprentices serving as guides and presentation assistants.
Organizers said the Forestry Fair continues to inspire curiosity, environmental stewardship and a deeper appreciation for the critical role forests play in everyday life.
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